N.C. Labor Commissioner Ends ‘Death Discount’
- Labor Commissioner Luke Farley announced an immediate end to reducing workplace safety penalties in fatal cases based on business size, eliminating a practice that previously slashed fines for on-the-job deaths.
- This major policy shift mandates that penalties for fatalities consistently reflect the gravity of the loss.
- Small businesses will now receive safety support through education and outreach instead of reduced accountability, strengthening state workplace safety.
Driver Charged After Striking Safety Service Patrol Worker on I-64
- A Virginia Department of Transportation contractor was seriously injured Saturday while setting up traffic cones on Interstate 64 in Newport News.
- A black sedan struck the Safety Service Patrol worker as he was retrieving equipment from the rear of his stationary vehicle.
- A state trooper provided immediate medical aid before the victim was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries.
- The driver was charged with reckless driving and a seatbelt violation.
Gurnee Roofer Dies Following Critical Fall at Construction Site
- A construction worker has died after falling from a roof while working on a residence in Gurnee.
- Emergency responders arrived Friday afternoon to find the victim in critical condition before transporting him to a local hospital.
- Officials confirmed the worker later succumbed to his injuries despite receiving medical treatment.
- OSHA is investigating the incident to evaluate workplace safety standards.